Anti-Hamas militia leader, backed by Israel, killed in Gaza
What's the story
Yasser Abu Shabab, the leader of an Israeli-backed militia in southern Gaza, was killed on Thursday. The Popular Forces group that he led confirmed that he was shot and killed while trying to mediate a clan dispute in Rafah. His death is seen as a potential setback for Israel's post-war plans in the region. Two Israeli sources told CNN that efforts were made to evacuate him to a hospital before he died.
Militia leader
Abu Shabab's role in Israeli-backed militia
Abu Shabab was the most prominent leader of several Israeli-backed armed groups in Gaza. He had been expanding his influence, aiming to establish a Hamas-free zone. Israel hoped to use its militia as a tool against Hamas and for reconstruction projects under a ceasefire agreement. During the war's final months, Abu Shabab helped manage aid flows from the Kerem Shalom crossing.
Militia leader
Hamas's response to Abu Shabab's death
Hamas, which had previously threatened Abu Shabab, called him a traitor but didn't take responsibility for his death. The militant group stated he met "the inevitable fate of anyone who betrays their people and homeland." Hamas praised those who condemned Abu Shabab and others "collaborating" with Israel. They added, "We emphasize that the Occupation, just as it failed to protect its agents, cannot protect any of its collaborators."
Denial issued
Popular forces deny Hamas's involvement in Abu Shabab's death
Meanwhile, the Popular Forces also denied that Abu Shabab was killed by Hamas, calling such reports misleading. Pictures circulated on Gaza messaging groups showed Palestinians celebrating his death. Muhammad Shehada, a Gaza expert, told CNN that Abu Shabab's group would carry out raids in Hamas-controlled territory before retreating to Israeli protection.
Ongoing operation
Israel's support for armed groups in Gaza
Without a post-war governance plan for Gaza, Israel has backed these armed groups, which have carved out small bits of territory in different parts of the strip. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called them "a good thing," despite the political criticism that they were "the equivalent of ISIS in Gaza." Earlier, it was reported that the operation to arm these groups was authorized without security cabinet approval.